Getting ready for your portrait session can be overwhelming, but we want you to enjoy your experience without complication. Here’s a few tips to help you plan.

What do we wear?

This is the most common question, and it is a very easy answer!

~ Simply, be comfortable and be yourself!

~ Matching can be fun, but coordinating colors tend to draw more depth and interest into your portraits.

~ Neutral colors are softer and give an elegant feel to your portrait - tans, grays, browns, whites, and light blues. If you would like something bold and contemporary, bright accent colors such as red and vivid yellow are eye-catching.

~ Keep the weather in mind. Central Florida is hot and humid most of the year, and even if you’re striving for a traditional autumn or winter look, you might get too hot during your shoot.

~ Comfort is key! The more comfortable you feel wearing your clothes, the more comfortable you will be in front of the camera.

What do we bring?

Does your family have a special something? Bring it with you and we will do our best to include it. Special blankets, childhood toys, books, a football … or maybe an engagement ring! Most importantly, bring a cheerful attitude. We know that life can be stressful, but don’t let the worries of the day dictate your heart. You’re a family for a reason, and we’d want to feature the love you share!

Cheese is something you put on a sandwich, not on your face!

Great images are often spoiled by a tense, forced smile. When you relax with your family and enjoy the time together – actually laugh genuinely, the smiles will be natural and you’ll look like yourself. There is nothing more beautiful than that! Also, don’t be afraid to not look at the camera. An exchanged smile or shared, secret giggles sometimes make the most memorable images.

Have a full tummy and plenty of rest!

You do not look your best when you are HANGRY! It would make sense to go knock out some pictures and then go out to eat. If you do that, make sure to have a good healthy snack first. Get plenty of rest the night before your session, so you can avoid puffy eyes and have lots of energy. Please be aware of the time … Dave likes to remind Jess that she has a terminal case of “just one more thing-itis”. It doesn’t matter how little time she has, she will always try to squeeze in just one more thing from her to-do list. Portrait session day is not the day to this! You’ll want to leave yourself a little extra time for travel, to account for traffic and to ensure that you’re familiar with your session location, as well as leave time to set up any props you might be bringing with you. If you’re feeling rushed and disorganized, it tends to show up in your images.

Most importantly?

HAVE FUN!! Formal shots are beautiful, and we love to do those. But don’t be afraid to laugh and giggle, play and jump around, steal a kiss or jump on for a piggyback ride. Just be careful! We love to capture your family as you really are when they aren’t any cameras on you, and those are usually the images our clients love the most, as well.